An ecumenical service was held in the town of Roetha on Saturday to mark the 200th anniversary of the event - also known as the Battle of Leipzig.

The night before, European Parliament President Martin Schulz gave a speech at a memorial to the battle warning of a resurgence of nationalism.

An estimated 600,000 soldiers took part in the series of battles from 16-19 October 1813 and almost 100,000 of them lost their lives.

The victory of the allies - including a small British contingent - over Napoleon marked the end of his control of German territory.

Organisers say their controversial re-enactment is intended to be peaceful and to bring history alive. Many of the thousands taking part have grown period-style moustaches to match their 19th Century replica uniforms.

The role of Napoleon is being played by a 46-year-old Parisian lawyer, Frank Samson, who taught himself the Corsican language in an attempt to give a more authentic performance as the French emperor.

Local TV is reporting live from the scene as if the battle is actually being fought today.

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Parisian lawyer Frank Samson is taking on the role of Napoleon

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The Battle of the Nations monument was illuminated on the eve of the anniversary

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Ahead of the re-enactment performers camped in the village of Markkleeberg